Mandatory elevator inspection: Deadlines and requirements

How important is the mandatory inspection of an elevator? Nowadays, elevators have become indispensable elements in urban buildings, allowing residents to be taken from one place to another without major complexity.

The importance of mandatory elevator inspections

From skyscrapers to low-rise buildings, these vertical transport platforms are part of the daily lives of millions of people around the world. However, beyond the convenience they can offer, their implementation and use come with a great responsibility: maintenance.

In addition to investing in quality lifts with robust safety systems, it is crucial to prioritize preventive and corrective maintenance of this equipment. In addition, new monitoring technologies have allowed us to carry out predictive maintenance in real time, something that allows us to intervene just before a failure occurs.

Thus, not only is the integrity of the people who use it guaranteed, but also its optimal operation, being able to detect and solve potential problems that may put the safety of passengers at risk.

Inspección obligatoria de un ascensor: Plazos y requisitos

What happens if the mandatory inspection of an elevator is not performed?

Skipping or neglecting the mandatory inspection of an elevator can trigger life-threatening consequences for users. Unexpected failures, such as a faulty door or worn wires, could lead to dangerous situations if not detected and corrected in time. For this reason, a highly trained inspector should conduct the review.

The three types of Inspections that must be carried out

  • Initial: These are inspections that are conducted at the time of the installation of the elevator. The technician verifies that the vertical mobility platform is working properly and complies with the corresponding legal and safety standards for its use. In addition, the quality of the elevator shaft is checked, all spaces in the walls have been properly blocked against fire, and there is sufficient space both above and below the elevator to allow safe access for technical personnel for its maintenance, among others.
  • Change of conservator: An inspection is also required when changing maintenance companies.
  • Periodic: These types of check-ups are scheduled and performed on a regular basis. They aim to ensure the optimal functioning of the elevator over time, and to detect and correct failures before they become risky situations for users.
  • Extraordinary: Unlike regular inspections, these are not scheduled and are usually carried out in specific situations—for example, when an incident is detected related to major failures in mechanical or electrical components that affect the device’s operation, malfunctions in safety systems, unusual noises, vibrations, or anomalies indicating a potential fault.

It should be noted that the omission of revisions can lead to unexpected failures such as malfunctions, interruptions of service, premature wear of components, and an increased risk of accidents, falls, entrapment, or derailments. In addition, it is important to note that failure to comply with safety and review regulations results in legal and financial penalties.

Requirements for performing a mandatory elevator inspection

Performing the mandatory inspection of an elevator requires the appointment of technicians or teams of inspectors specifically trained for this task. It is key to select a company that meets the requirements to carry out this service properly. The requirements are as follows:

  • Have accreditation: All inspectors involved in the review process must be certified and have technical training in elevator maintenance, preferably acquired through recognized programs.
  • An approved inspection certificate must be issued: That is, a document confirming that the inspection has been conducted by a team of technicians, trained for this purpose. The certificate records the date and results of the inspection, recommendations or any observations that must be made to ensure the safety of the certificate.
  • The inspection must be carried out during the stipulated time: Depending on each area, the law establishes the time in which the mandatory inspection of an elevator must be carried out. This period must be complied with by those responsible, ensuring that the lift undergoes regular safety and maintenance assessments.

Mandatory inspection of an elevator: Legal provisions

In Spain, the ITE or Technical Inspection of Buildings, plays a key role in the mandatory inspection of vertical mobility platforms.

The ITE is a mandatory examination for buildings that are more than 50 years old, carried out by experts, which allows you to know the general conditions in terms of the safety and health of a property. As part of the process, key aspects of the structure, such as the façade, installations and common elements are analyzed, identifying problems that require attention.

Among the aspects that are evaluated may be the safety and operation of elevators within a building. It is recommended to do the ITE 45 years after construction. . After passing the first assessment, an inspection must be conducted on a more recurring basis, this time every 3, 6 or 10 years, although in some cases it depends on the legislation of each municipality.

Inspección obligatoria de un ascensor: Disposiciones legales​

In the case of elevators, the new ITC or AEM Complementary Technical Instruction states that the deadlines for mandatory inspections are:

  • Favorable inspection: A favorable inspection is required before the elevator is put into operation.
  • Inspection due to change of maintenance provider: An inspection is required when switching to a different maintenance company.
  • Every 2 years for elevators installed in buildings for industrial use with large public attendance.
  • Every 4 years for elevators installed in buildings with more than twenty dwellings or more than four floors served.
  • Every 6 years for lifts not included in the above categories.

To pass the assessment, existing elevators must comply with minimum safety measures in accordance with the law, including:

  • Use a variable frequency drive.
  • Incorporate a light curtain.
  • Implement a two-way communication system.
  • Install load weighers.
  • Replacement of guides and chassis.

Leave the mandatory inspection of your elevator in the hands of Aszende

The mandatory inspection of an elevator is extremely important For this reason, we recommend Aszende as your strategic ally to carry out this process. As experts in the installation and maintenance of vertical mobility solutions, Aszende has established itself as a benchmark in the sector, applying the latest technologies in elevator maintenance in its process.

In addition, it has a team of highly trained and certified professionals who provide comprehensive services in elevator installation, maintenance, and inspection, ensuring optimal performance and the safety of users who rely on these platforms every day. Contact us to avoid service interruptions, learn the cost of your elevator maintenance, and discover the services we offer.

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